Too many people feel that a community college will offer a sub par education compared to a four year university. The teaching staff here is excellent and I know that I am getting the same education as my friends at large universities. If anything, Black Hawk offers even more than a large university because of the opportunities for one on one time with professors. The only downside is the smaller number and decreased variety of classes offered here. But, this isn't a problem for people who just want to take take core or introductory classes.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
The education may be comparable to four year universities, but the atmosphere isn't, in my opinion. It is simply too small and located in too small of a community to really give you that college experience. There are few clubs and activities, which not only leads to low student involvement on campus, but also may decrease your opportunities to receive scholarships when and if you transfer to another college. Also, since there are obviously no dorms (and therefore no roommates) it is more difficult to meet people and make friends than at a university. Still, what you need to ask yourself is if the college experience is worth going into debt for.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Compared to universities or even other nearby community colleges, Black Hawk is a great value. Paying for it yourself is very manageable and is you receive any financial aid, it may easily cover the cost of an entire year. They also offer many scholarship opportunities. If you want to get in a year or two of college without going into debt, this is the place to do it.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Because Black Hawk is a smaller college, they also have a smaller number of staff members. So, do not wait until the last minute to register, pay for your classes, or see an advisor because the lines will be very long near the beginning of each semester! Also, be sure to check out what classes from Black Hawk are part of the Illinois Articulation Agreement. These classes will transfer to almost any college in Illinois and a few in eastern Iowa. They are also more likely to transfer to other colleges. Finally, if it has been awhile since you have taken a math or English class, I would suggest refreshing a bit before taking the Compass exam that they require, or you may end up in a remedial class which won't count as college credit. Such a class will help to build up your core skills in those subjects, though, if you feel that you need the help.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Money conscious students will obviously love the price. Also, anyone interested in building their skills in core subjects will appreciate the amount of basic classes offered below the 100 level and all of the free tutoring that is made available.
Too many people feel that a community college will offer a sub par education compared to a four year university. The teaching staff here is excellent and I know that I am getting the same education as my friends at large universities. If anything, Black Hawk offers even more than a large university because of the opportunities for one on one time with professors. The only downside is the smaller number and decreased variety of classes offered here. But, this isn't a problem for people who just want to take take core or introductory classes.
The education may be comparable to four year universities, but the atmosphere isn't, in my opinion. It is simply too small and located in too small of a community to really give you that college experience. There are few clubs and activities, which not only leads to low student involvement on campus, but also may decrease your opportunities to receive scholarships when and if you transfer to another college. Also, since there are obviously no dorms (and therefore no roommates) it is more difficult to meet people and make friends than at a university. Still, what you need to ask yourself is if the college experience is worth going into debt for.
Compared to universities or even other nearby community colleges, Black Hawk is a great value. Paying for it yourself is very manageable and is you receive any financial aid, it may easily cover the cost of an entire year. They also offer many scholarship opportunities. If you want to get in a year or two of college without going into debt, this is the place to do it.
Because Black Hawk is a smaller college, they also have a smaller number of staff members. So, do not wait until the last minute to register, pay for your classes, or see an advisor because the lines will be very long near the beginning of each semester! Also, be sure to check out what classes from Black Hawk are part of the Illinois Articulation Agreement. These classes will transfer to almost any college in Illinois and a few in eastern Iowa. They are also more likely to transfer to other colleges. Finally, if it has been awhile since you have taken a math or English class, I would suggest refreshing a bit before taking the Compass exam that they require, or you may end up in a remedial class which won't count as college credit. Such a class will help to build up your core skills in those subjects, though, if you feel that you need the help.
Money conscious students will obviously love the price. Also, anyone interested in building their skills in core subjects will appreciate the amount of basic classes offered below the 100 level and all of the free tutoring that is made available.